What shotgun works best for home defense?

Alan

Alan

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I've been on the hunt for a shotgun for home defense and could use some input from those with experience. I'm weighing 12-gauge against 20-gauge. Sure, the 12-gauge packs a punch, but I've heard the 20-gauge is more manageable with less recoil, especially in tight spaces. What's the trade-off here?

Also, what do I need to consider regarding barrel length and stock setup? I'm looking for something that's simple and reliable, so any specific models or brands you recommend would be great.

Lastly, how crucial is training for someone like me? I've messed around with shotguns a bit, but I want to feel prepared. What's the best way to practice for home defense situations?
 
Mossberg 500, Remington 870 or the Winchester 1300 all have a shorter profile versions. And nothing is as loud as a pump gun racking in a shell to an intruder.
 
I've got two defensive shotguns, both are pump action guns, a Winchester 1300 Defender and a Mossberg 590A1. Both of those have been very good & dependable shotguns. I have been seriously looking at adding a Beretta A300 Ultima Patrol to the family as I would like to have a semi-auto shotgun...I keep trying to talk myself out of it... 😲
 
Mine is an 870 Marine Magnum. Loaded with 3" 00 buck shot. Probably overkill but, I'm 6'5" and 247 lbs so recoil, while sharp, is still manageable. I had a Mossberg 500 at the office loaded the same way but, it was stolen in a break in couple of years ago and has not been recovered along with 8 firearms my partner had just purchased from an estate.

A 20 gauge makes sense but, there are few options available. A youth model 870 in 20 gauge could something to consider. Training is obviously helpful however, many ranges in my area don't allow shotguns. I am a member of a hunting lease so, in the off season, I use it as a range when needed.
 
Remington 870 Tactical....

Remington 870 tactical.webp
 
I use a REM 11-87 semi auto. Semi is a bit softer on recoil. I have a 18" barrel to make it very handy in the house. Training is key. Practice and know your weapon. Tasks and standards remain the same during training, change the conditions. Train at night so if you have to use it in the dark you'll be prepared.
 
MC2 said:
I use a REM 11-87 semi auto. Semi is a bit softer on recoil. I have a 18" barrel to make it very handy in the house. Training is key. Practice and know your weapon. Tasks and standards remain the same during training, change the conditions. Train at night so if you have to use it in the dark you'll be prepared.
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The training at night is very good advice.
 
Alan said:
I've been on the hunt for a shotgun for home defense and could use some input from those with experience. I'm weighing 12-gauge against 20-gauge. Sure, the 12-gauge packs a punch, but I've heard the 20-gauge is more manageable with less recoil, especially in tight spaces. What's the trade-off here?

Also, what do I need to consider regarding barrel length and stock setup? I'm looking for something that's simple and reliable, so any specific models or brands you recommend would be great.

Lastly, how crucial is training for someone like me? I've messed around with shotguns a bit, but I want to feel prepared. What's the best way to practice for home defense situations?
Click to expand...
First of all in a home situation your shots are going to be very close under 30' and it doesn't matter 12 or 20 so long as you shoot the gun very well. I would recommend a shorter barrel 18" or so and my preference would be an 870 Remington pump they've never built a more dependable shotgun, and I like a butt stock that I can shoulder. My shotgun is loaded with 2 rounds of #2 lead in front of 3 rounds of #4 buckshot with 5 more rounds of #4 buck on the butt for backup and I pray that I never need any of this in a real world situation
 
Mossberg 500 with 18" barrel and 8+1 capacity is what I have. I think the best training is just shooting a lot and being extremely familiar with the function of your gun including how to clear malfunctions. You could even do a lot of that at home with gun mount and dry fire drills.
 
I also have a Mossberg. It's the 88 model and came as a combo with an 18 and a 28 inch barrel. Nice, inexpensive all-around gun. Rural KIng has them as a combo.
 

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